Novak Djokovic moved within two wins of his 100th career title after securing a 6-3, 7-6(4) victory over Sebastian Korda at the Miami Open. Meanwhile, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka dominated her semi-final clash against Jasmine Paolini with a 6-2, 6-2 win to reach her first Miami Open final.
Djokovic Battles Back to Secure Victory
Djokovic, aiming for a record-extending seventh Miami Open title, showcased his signature resilience by recovering from a 5-2 deficit in the second set. The 37-year-old Serbian fired down an ace on match point, prompting a jubilant celebration from his coach and former rival, Andy Murray.
“I’ve been serving great the entire tournament, but particularly today I needed it in the second to try to come back,” Djokovic said post-match.
With this win, Djokovic became the oldest ATP Masters 1000 semi-finalist, surpassing Roger Federer, who made the final four at Indian Wells and Miami at 37 years and seven months in 2019.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion now faces Grigor Dimitrov in the semi-finals.
Fritz Outlasts Berrettini, Mensik Continues Surprise Run
- Jakub Mensik overcame Arthur Fils 7-6(5), 6-1 to book a semi-final meeting with Taylor Fritz, who prevailed in a three-set thriller against Matteo Berrettini.
- Fritz squandered six match points before finally closing it out 7-5, 6-7(7), 7-5 on his seventh opportunity.
“There’s two options—get frustrated, lose, and be even more frustrated, or regroup and get the win,” said Fritz, who will now chase a spot in the final.
Sabalenka Dominates to Reach First Miami Open Final
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka showed her title-winning intent with a commanding 6-2, 6-2 victory over Jasmine Paolini. The Belarusian fired six aces, saved all four break points she faced, and converted four of five break opportunities to continue her dominant run.
Sabalenka, who arrived in Miami fresh off a runner-up finish at Indian Wells, has not dropped a set in her five matches so far.
Pegula Ends Eala’s Dream Run
Sabalenka will face Jessica Pegula in the final after the American fourth seed battled past Philippine wildcard Alexandra Eala 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-3 in a late-night thriller.
Pegula fought back from 2-5 down in the opening set and overcame a strong comeback effort from the 19-year-old Eala, who twisted her ankle but refused to back down.
“I’m tired,” Pegula jokingly wrote on a camera lens after securing victory past midnight.
Eala, who stunned three Grand Slam champions during her fairytale run, received a standing ovation from the crowd after an emotional exchange with Pegula at the net.
Final Showdowns Await
With Djokovic chasing history and Sabalenka eyeing her first Miami Open title, the Miami Open is set for an electrifying conclusion.
